Hello everyone :)

Chapter XX

Disclaimer, reminder and warnings. Nothing new, but needs to be written.

Friendly reminder: this story will be slightly AU and some characters might be OOC. For anyone who is not into YAOI, please do not read any further, this is not going to be your cup of tea :) Although, by now, I am sure most of you know what you're getting into x3

Disclaimer: I do not own Bleach or any of its characters, they all belong to Tite Kubo-Sensei etc., etc.

WARNINGS: Spoiler alert for anyone who is not up to date with the manga and only watched the anime! Somewhere along the way might contain but is not limited to include dark themes, suicidal thoughts, heavy sexual contest, yaoi (again xD) and some other themes not suitable for under-age reader. Read at your own risk and discretion! And if you don't like, please don't hate too much :3

So happy this story is so well liked. Thanks for everyone who is favors and follows this little trip of mine. And a big shout out to all who reviewed, continue to review and may leave a little inspirational push in the future :3

Chapter XX

In Soul Society gossip and rumors spread like wildfire. No one cared whether the information was accurate or not, it was considered irrelevant or a minor inconvenience as long as they had something to talk about besides duties and work. Even so, the death of a Shinigami at the hands of a Hollow was always an interesting affair. Some blamed the rookies' inexperience, while others tried to find the culprit in their own ways.

When the female member of squad thirteen was brought in for interrogation, many brought up stories and created their own versions of what happened in the World of the Living. Her release triggered an even bigger scandal. To say the girl was devastated from all the false accusation would be underestimating the length of emotional abuse she had gone through in just a few days. Returning to her squad, she had received support from her Taichou*, colleagues and teammates. Yet it was not enough. The constant pokes and strikes at the wrong allegations were becoming too much to handle.

Bullying was not acceptable among the Gotei 13. Those who oppressed another Shinigami with no reason were commonly punished. Though, due to their lack in numbers, these tyrants would face minimal penalties. Mostly, they would be placed under house arrest for a certain period of time with no salary. Not the greatest penalty, as it did not prevent for their anger to be passed among those who would visit for a chat. Before long, the innocent soul was brought down to her knees from the continuous onslaught at a badly done job. Resignation was impossible. Once you became a full-fledged Shinigami there was no such thing as retirement, unless you wanted a one-way ticket to the Maggots' Nest.

Taichou Ukitake Jushiro saw the level of stress his subordinate was constantly enduring. There was not much he could do, since the perpetrators were not members of his squad. However, he was not known to be a quitter. He went through the girls' history and her strengths, soon noticing she had an affinity in the arts of Kido. Using the data to its full advantage he approached the Captain of the Kido Corps, suggesting for his member to be transferred in their unit. It was a blessing that he was among the most respected captains in Seireitei. His request fulfilled, the girl safe within the protection and veneration that was given to Kido Masters.

This change saved the girls' life. Moved away from the cause of tension she bloomed once more and became a proud and strong member of the Kido Corps. There she was treated in the same manner as any other person learning the art. Outside his squad, she would have forever been branded as the Shinigami who was investigated for a crime she did not commit.

A Taichou meeting was scheduled to finalize the needed steps and city assignments. The meeting dragged on forever, but ended with various changes. Many towns were allocated to a different squad than before. One of the most surprising news, was that Squad Ten would be responsible for Narukishi city, while Karakura remained under Ukitake Taichou's leadership. It was confirmed that two Shinigami would be appointed to some cities due to the increase in Hollow activity. Karakura and Narukishi being two of six to which said rule applied. Many were baffled at the information that stronger Hollows were coming in certain areas and higher than usual Hollow attacks. The Captain of Squad Two and Leader of the Special Forces was tasked to investigate what was causing this phenomenon.

None of the Taichou had noticed that they had been overheard. Not that they could, since the eavesdropping scoundrel was on the opposite side of the wall. A black cat was outside the window of Squad One's assembly room. Had anyone noticed the animal, they would have just ignored it as it behaved as expected of a feline. Lying on the grass under a beam of Sunlight. It was certainly nothing out of the ordinary. It would never cross anyone's mind that the creature was a spy in disguise. As the meeting finished, the cat stretched and was gone by the blink of an eye, leaving no traces behind or any indication that it was there just seconds ago.

Yoruichi was pleased, she had gathered all that she had wanted to know. She did not like the idea of the Onmitsukidō* going around the World of the Living, but it would not be that bad if they were to send them to Hueco Mundo. She had high hopes her pupil would send two parties to both worlds. Since she had the ear-piece, she knew Kisuke was already aware, thus, she did not feel any worry. They would have to improve everyone's gigai. A walk in the park by Kisuke's standards. Seeing she was already here, Yoruichi decided to snoop around and see what else she could find out.

In a forest at the outskirts of Karakura, a black void appeared out of nowhere. From the darkness came out three individuals, one of them with a large smile on his pale features. Soken-san's face through the ride had been simply delicious, full of amazement, curiosity and a tiny bit of trepidation. All in all, a journey through a Garganta could be described as an out of this world experience for hunters. They did not get many opportunities to see, much less be inside one.

Looking around, Shirosaki filled his lungs to the brim with fresh air. So many memories were tied to this particular place. Most importantly, it was somewhere within this precise woodland that he had met his Ichigo for the first time. Back then, the little tyke was about nine, running from who knows what and he just happened to stumble upon Barragan's Hollows, who had the task to capture Shirosaki. At first, Shirosaki was ready to escape and put even more distance between himself and his pursuers since he was injured and all. When he heard the scream of a child reverberate thought the trees something made him pause.

Living in Hueco Mundo and being chased around teaches you the ruthless rules of 'Survival of the fittest'. It was not the first time an innocent life was lost for someone else's benefit. Even so, for whichever unknown reason, Shirosaki could not go forward after hearing that cry. Instead he turned and decided to help. A fond smile graced Shirosaki's face at the memory that in the end it was Shirosaki himself who got saved. He who went to the rescue, ended up needing help. To this day, he had no idea how the tiny kid wiped away the leftover Adjucha class Hollows.

That was also the first time he had met Ossan. Shirosaki would never, ever, admit to anyone, not even himself, but meeting the Quincy King had been the most terrifying experience of his life. Hell, Quincies were and are avoided because once they shoot you, there is no going back. It's not like with Shinigami who 'purge' Hollows and they get a chance at reincarnation, Quincy completely destroyed the soul. Once dead, that was it, you were lost for all eternity. When the bleeding boy he held in his hands returned to his senses and called the Quincy Monarch 'Grandpapa', Shirosaki was not sure if he should feel frozen or relieved. He was spared that day only because the little imp woke up on time. Any later and Shirosaki would have been turned into an arrow filled pincushion.

Shirosaki turned to look at the other two males behind him. A knowing smirk on his face at seeing Ossan's expression.

'Figures. He too is going through time.'

Soken was the first to speak up.

"Heika, this place… Where are we? It kind of feels familiar, though I am sure I have never been here before."

Ossan sent Soken an interested look. He thought for a little while. Chances are Soken is sensing the light hum of reishi from a forgotten time.

"This forest will guide us to the main entrance of the Royal Palace. The whole zone is rich in reiatsu and reishi remains from past times. It is not so improbable for you to get an unusual vibe. After all, the castle could be considered the birthplace of our race. A long time ago, the palace was also the center of a grand kingdom. I was not given the title of King solely for having bestowed Quincies with the gift and power against Hollows. We used to rule over a magnificent Empire, sadly it is no more. My imprisonment lead to a devastating chain reaction which brought the downfall of a great Nation as well as the tumble of our Kind."

Having finished his explanation, Ossan took the lead and guided Soken and Shirosaki toward their destination. Shirosaki looked at each crevice with enthusiasm and knowing glances. Needless to say, the forest brought many pleasant memories. The fun he had with a certain 'protector'.

Ichigo and Shirosaki had spent all the free time they had available in exploring every inch of the large woodlands surrounding the castle. All three of them! The one they were using now brought to the palace and had nothing spectacular, besides the mother of all barriers. Then there were the two beyond the royal gardens. Between the Summer and Knowledge tower was the 'park' and training garden, while in the space separating the Polar and Blossom fortification stood the plantation garden.

Personally, Shirosaki's most-liked was the forest outside of the training grounds. While roaming around the well-known paths, Ichigo entrusted him with his favorite site a hidden small heaven. He was told that when Ichigo wanted a bit of privacy or to simply feel free it was there he would venture to. Subsequently, if he felt down or did not want to be found by the overbearing staff, he would always go to the oasis. Which became their secret paradise. Not even Ossan knew about it. One of the few things they had not shared with anyone. It belonged to them and them alone!

Soken could see mischievous and somewhat playful smiles on Shirosaki's face. He was sure he would never cease to be surprised by the Hollows behavior. Looking at his Majesty, he could tell the other was deep in thoughts. Probably absorbed by his past. A notion crossed his own mind. The man before him was without a doubt Heika. The Emperor knows Shirosaki-san more or less since the ruler was appointed as their King. If that is the case, how come they do not appear any older than a male in his early or mid-thirties and a young man around twenty? The collapse of the realm occurred over nine hundred years ago, soon to reach a thousand years. Graceful maturing? Or was it something else? He would never give the two more than two hundred years by Shinigami standards. Three hundred would be pushing too much.

Soken was stopped by a light pull of his shoulder. Gazing at the hand, he concluded it had been the Hollow who brought him out of his musing. Looking at Shirosaki-san, he was confused that the other was not sparing him even a glance. Instead the Hollow dedicated his whole attention to something in front of them. Watching ahead, he became even more bewildered at the view of a motionless Heika. Either than the older man, there was nothing around that warranted attention. They were still amidst plants and vegetation.

"Your Majesty. May I inquire as to why we have suddenly stopped?"

Shirosaki at his side snorted in amusement and answered the question instead of his companion.

"Hush now Soken-san. Ossan is a little busy bringing down the reiatsu wall surrounding this entire area. Nothing to worry, but it is better not to disturb him, just enjoy the show."

The poor sap was even more puzzled. A barrier? Where? For the love of him, he could feel and sense absolutely nothing. There was nothing in front of them, just an endless trail of dirt, grass and trees. He stared and stared, he extended his senses to the fullest and still got naught for all his efforts.

Several minutes later there was a small change. It was like a curtain being slowly raised at a theater. What greeted his wise eyes, was a sight he would remember for as long as he lived. A magnificent palace overgrown by vines and different types of flora. Even in its rundown condition it demanded respect and veneration. Soken had read the old tomes and stories about the Royal Castle, but written documents paled in comparison to reality. Such a masterpiece could never be accurately described. He could not recall the last time he stared at something open-mouthed. Though, he was not even aware of having his mouth wide open.

Shirosaki on the other hand, did see and was having a battle with himself. To tell or to remain silent and enjoy a little longer. Decisions, decisions. He opted to let it be for as long as it would, not that it could last as Ossan took that moment to turn around.

"Here we are, the Royal Palace. Let us move along now, we have much to explore and search through. Although, I doubt we will have to look for much. I was assuming we would get to meet up with Haschwalth. Nevertheless, considering he is being detained in Wandenreich, I am not surprised. I do, however, expect he will send someone trustworthy in this direction. All we have to do is wait and see. In the meantime, Shirosaki and I had in mind to check the castle for any clues to the situation at hand. The protection ward should not have let anyone in. However, I would like to be certain. This is also the reason I took the transmitters Urahara-san gave us and hid them away. I desire for this place to remain untraceable and undiscovered. Therefore, I do not wish any information to be passed to Urahara-san. In case we do encounter anyone, it won't be an issue to take them outside the barrier and deal with them there. So far, the intel Urahara-san will receive is the approximate location and nothing else. Now then, shall we?"

He did not wait for a response and moved with all the poise of a noble returning to his home. Soken chose to stay at the Emperor's side.

"Oi Ossan! Mind if we separate for a bit? There are a few places I'd like to visit."

Shirosaki's voice had been surprisingly soft and solemn, as though the mere idea of seeing certain parts of the amazing structure could bring up the dead from their graves. It was such a tone that brought chills on Soken's skin. It was a new side to the Hollow, he had yet to see.

Ossan had an inkling to where Shirosaki was headed. There was one peculiar place he had never investigated at Ichigo's request. There had been many occasions when he could not find either Ichigo or Shirosaki. He had presumed the two must have created a space to be left alone. The fascinating thing was that at times it was either only Ichigo or only Shirosaki missing. Whenever Ichigo was gone, Shirosaki seemed to be the only one to know exactly where to locate him and bring him back. Thus, he did promise his Ichigo he would never worry too much. He also gave his word not to send any other search parties for him, besides Shirosaki, as long as he was last felt within the castle grounds.

Ossan nodded his head in agreement and moved forward with Soken at his side. Shirosaki stood on the same spot until he could not see either of the two and only then moved through the gardens. He wanted to go back to that piece of heaven. It was the place where he buried one of Ichigo's uniforms. Since Ichigo shattered into reishi particles, there had been no body to entomb. So, he went along with a substitute of sorts. For Ossan's sake, he took another outfit and together they let it drop at sea. Ichigo had been fond of seas and oceans and that lead them to imagine they buried his body where he would be surrounded by an endless body of water.

He was going to pay respect to his beloved in the same spot they had been the happiest. Where they had shared all their good and bad experiences… The very same patch of green where Shirosaki had been proven he too possessed a hearth.

It was official, Bazzard Black despised going in circles. He was given his 'new' mission and he already hated it. Not so much because of having to check a place no one knew where it was anymore, but because he had to go all the way back to that city. Fine, he did use Hirenkyaku at it did not took a lot of time. But he would have preferred if he could have just simply continued from that point. Instead he was told to go back to Yokohama, only to return here. Sheesh, why was this city so important? Meh, he would let Jugo figure things out, it turned out to be the easiest solution most of the time.

As per the coordinates, he was to venture even further down the town.

'Well, would you look at that a forest. Who would have guessed?! Really Jugo? This is where you send me?'

Yes, he was venting his frustration with sarcasm. He couldn't just blow things up the way he normally would have enjoyed as that would alert the others of his real destination instead of the faux data they received. He spotted a nice opening within the otherwise dense vegetation and landed. Something was telling him it would be best if he was to continue on foot.

He continued on for what must have been ten to twenty minutes, until he reached the end of the road as per the directions Jugo gave him.

'Weird, according to Jugo there should be either nothing or the next town right about here. Why does it look like the forest is endless? This is so messed-up. Better give him a quick call.'

Pulling the special transmitter meant for only Jugo, he made the sound signal hey had agreed upon, three taps at the front and one to the side. He knew he would have to wait for some time, after all they really did not want to risk getting caught. Not only would they lose points with their own associates, but all of Jugo's efforts to be seen as a loyal dog in front of Soren's eyes would have been in vain. Bazz-B could care less what the others or the Regent thought about him, but he would not get Jugo in trouble if he could avoid it.

He was distracted from the possible scenarios, by his friends' voice coming from the device.

"I see you made it. Anything significant to report?

Bazz-B snickered before responding.

"You never change do you Jugo? No 'how was your trip' or 'did you encounter trouble on the way' or any other shenanigans like that, huh? Straight to the point as usual. Well, I sure as hell am where you told me to go, but guess what? Maybe it's nothing, but your data is wrong. Heh, there is still quite a piece of woodland in front of me and unless I jump through space, there is no way I will reach the end any time soon. Do you have any idea as to what this is about now?"

He had to wait again. Was this getting old or what? He was finally graced with… you've guessed it right…not even a clue!

"It is rather odd. I expected many things, but not what you are saying. Can you sense anything at all?"

Bazzard was taken back by the question. He tried to feel anything, but to his surprise he could not get even one reading, not even an animals'.

"Oi Jugo. The hell is this place? I get nothing, zilch. Not a bird nor a rabbit."

Bazz-B would have bet his left hand, he had heard a scoff from the transmitter. Jugram Haschwalth was having fun. Since when did the bastard get to have fun at his expenses?! Before he could speak up his mind, he was deterred by the faster Jugo.

"Bazzard, move just ten steps ahead and tell me what happens."

Puzzled, but trusting his comrade's judgement, he did just that. Only after nine steps he could not proceed. Something invisible was blocking him.

"Oi Jugo, what the heck? I can't. There must be a barrier or some other freaky enchantment preventing me from making even one more step forward after nine. You better start explaining."

A humming noise preceded the reply.

"It is simple, you have found the field his Majesty had created to stop intruders form entering the Castle grounds. Good work. Would you mind searching around this area? There is a small chance we could find an opening or a weak link."

Bazz-B thought about it. It is true, after all these years it was possible the barricade was not as strong as it used to be, without the influence of the Emperor.

"Roger that Jugo. I'll call you back as soon as I have any new updates."

Hanging up on his accomplice, Bazzard walked backwards and was about to turn and walk away. He suddenly stopped when he felt a reiatsu. It was radiating from the invisible space. Right before his eyes, a passage was opening.

"Well, well, well. What do we have here? Looks like an open invitation. Could be a trap, but, meh, I like a challenge."

Bazzard passed through the opening to the familiar sight of the Royal Palace. What awaited him beyond the entrance yard, shocked him into silence, with his mouth wide open.

"Is this for real?"

Penetrating the wild forest was no easy task, but for a change, a welcomed assignment. The day was nice. If only he had a certain someone by his side, it would be perfect. A loud sigh left Shirosaki. He missed his Ichigo. It was days like these, the two would take off while pretending to go training.

Heh, they did end up more often than not fighting to keep each in shape. The battles always a true challenge, at all times pushing each other to their limits. Ichigo did mostly win, but every now and then Shirosaki would end up on top. Not that top you perverts, although, let it be known, he is not the type to bottom. That would never happen, period!

He finally saw what he had been looking for, a cave-like opening obscured by bushes. Pass the darkness of the cavern and you reached heaven. A large open green meadow with a huge deep blue lake in its middle surrounded by tall, thickly enclosed Japanese evergreen oaks. If that alone was not breathtaking enough, just a few paces from the lake stood a sole Japanese blue beech whose foliage changed depending on the time of the year.

It was peculiar how the only deciduous tree stood so far apart from the rest. Even so separated, it gallantly took its position and seemed to reach the skies above with its splendor. Soon summer would reach and make way to the colorful autumn. The lonely beech sapling would be the only one to change its colors and loose its leaves.

Shirosaki loved that time of the year solely because of the many hues the solitary tree displayed. The tint interchanged day to day, but sooner or later it vibrated with a variety of orange, red and yellow. Shirosaki used to joke that the tree flawlessly represented Ichigo. Luscious, full of passion and a fiery attitude to compliment the season's moods. It stood out in a 'crowd', but never wavered or backed down. Proud and defiant against all odds, piercing the very heavens if needed.

He himself was not one to talk. He too stood out like a sore thumb with his whiteness, weird eyes and blue tongue. Yes, not an appropriate look for a 'model' citizen. Yet somehow Ichigo made everything bearable and even pleasant. They ended up quarreling for half a day about whom the tree showcased more. When sunset came and hit the sap, they quietened down, amazed at the incredible sight. Needless to say, Shirosaki won the argument. The light fluctuation of branches caused by a breeze passing by, clearly illustrated Ichigo's hair color.

Shirosaki chuckled. That had been one of the first and rare disagreements they've had. It was also around the time he had taken the job as Ichigo's bodyguard. To think Ichigo believed in him so much from the very beginning made him feel fuzzy all over. He was glad no one was around to see that. He had a reputation to uphold.

That same day, Shirosaki demanded to know just why Ichigo had so much faith in him? Why deliberately trust a Hollow? Even before he took the career as guardian, roughly six years before he came to the palace, Ichigo had known Shirosaki's true nature. They did meet when the kid was nine. But even then, Ichigo had not labeled him a monster.

Ichigo said that no evil creature would go to rescue a child. When Shirosaki came to save him, even though he did sense the Hollow part of his powers, he knew he was different from those other Hollows. That alone was reason enough for a kid not to be afraid. Shirosaki had reasoned that not all monsters showed their true personality and the whole thing could have been one big fluke.

Ichigo, literally pushed him to the ground…the little prick… only to place the palm of his right hand onto, a blushing, Shirosaki's chest. With his left he took Shirosaki's right hand and set it on his own chest. Heartbeat. For the first time in his life, Shirosaki had listened to another person's heart. Ichigo told him that they both had a beating heart, if that was not proof enough, he would find more, would never stop until Shirosaki all but gave up on the idiotic idea of being a monster.

Shirosaki moved confidently among the prairie and came in front of the great tree. There was a mirror carved into the tree. It had been Ichigo who thought it would be a good option to set it there. There was a twin mirror in his chambers, that way the glass acted like a quick passage from Ichigo's room to this place and vice versa. Saved their skins so many times, when they were late for dinners or boring meetings.

Shirosaki glanced at the roots of the tree leading to the lake. The little dirt lump before his eyes made his heart ache. That is where he had laid 'Ichigo' to rest. He was already one with the water due to the burial he made with Ossan. But Shirosaki had wanted for a bit of Ichigo's spirit to be here as well. It was their special location. Ichigo once said that when he first came, he had felt like it was an alternate dimension. The reiatsu signature of those inside could not be felt outside of the zone. But conveniently enough, the two of them were able to sense anything that happened outside.

Looking at the little dirt bump, Shirosaki spoke out.

"Hey there Aibou. It's been a while, huh? Sorry I did not come here since… well… you know… Yeah, yeah, I'm not one to apologize just like that, but I want you to be aware I did not forget you. May not have talked aloud much… but I never stopped thinking about you… not like Ossan was any better. It's been rough, living on without you and your temper… Right… I'm not that different, am I? We used to bicker back and forth… Boy, I sure do feel the absence of all those moments… Most of all, I miss you. Our time spent together was the best time of my life. I so wish to have you back… To see you one more time… You know what? Your mom never changed. She persistently comes back with her cheerfulness and high-spirited attitude. Makes me jealous… She got so many reincarnations, but you did not get even one. Meh, you would chide me and say to take it easy on her since it was not her fault… I've got that you devilish imp. I guess I'm trying to be her friend. She's gone through a lot in the last few rebirths… Ossan has not changed much, at times he still behaves like a noble with a frozen pole stuck up where the Sun does not shine. Surprisingly, he defended me a little while ago. Totally unexpected, yet appreciated, I won't deny that… There are no more members to the Kurosaki's household and unless Ossan decides to create a new lineage, this will be your last opportunity at coming back like you promised. You better keep it up too! We've been away for far too long. If… if it's not possible, I'll understand. You did not know the full length of Soren's scheme… If you can't come back, will you at least wait for me a little longer? Soren is apparently back, the bastard. I will not let him do as he pleases. Therefore, until I can get rid of him, wait for me, ok?"

Shirosaki would have wanted to continue a bit longer, but the feel of someone's reiatsu made him hesitate. Why was that reiatsu familiar? Oh, right! It was the one from earlier in the morning, that Bazz what's his name Quincy. Haschwalth's lap dog or whatever.

"Heh. Guess Ossan was right again. Haschwalth must have sent him over. You know, Ossan is pretending not to be that wrung up about all the events, but he had a really bad nightmare. It was so bad that his reiatsu went out of control for a while. He is fine now, but he would be better if he could get you again… We both would… Oh well, I should be on my way to greet the new arrived hunter. Love to make them squirm, that too did not change. I'll see you soon again… weather it is in this or in the next life matters not… Love you…"

Shirosaki turned and left with a swift mix of Shunpo and Sonido, leaving with a booming buzz.

"Is this for real? I mean, come on! What kind of sick joke is this? If I remember, this is supposed to be Quincy only residence. I went through all the trouble of getting here for what?! To be greeted by a… wait… what are you?"

Shirosaki had been so tempted to face palm at the hunters' late realization. His saving grace was the fact he had spent so much time with Ossan. Seriously, the guy needed to brighten up. He had presumed the dude would have learnt a thing or two since the last time they've seen each other. Well, it looks like some idiots remained stupid for the rest of eternity.

Giving the Quincy a level gaze, he soon broke into his trademark smile.

"And here I thought you would be happy to see me. Has your memory deteriorated so much, eh Bazz-B?" Shirosaki was delighted at having finally recalled the others name.

"Should I refresh it with a spar? We used to head-buts frequently. Maybe it will serve to kick some sense into that thick skull of yours."

Bazzard was speechless… again. Those eyes, that wicked smirk, the arrogance that spoke 'you can't touch me'… A click fell in place and he remembered. There was only one person who looked like that, so much like the orange headed Denka.

"I never thought I would see you here Shirosaki! Came back to life to get your ass handed over? You sure talk big for a little twig."

Shirosaki took no offence. On the contrary, he was itching for a good fight. On the plus side, Bazz was under the impression he had been reborn. Perfect. Simply marvelous. He would use that to his advantage and beat him seven ways into next week.

"Yeah, got a bump on the head a while ago and remembered my past. We sure had lots of fun. Especially me, when I would send you to the recovery wing."

A tick formed on Bazzard's forehead.

"Think you can beat me? As difference from you lowly human scum, I've lived on and only got better. I'll mess up that white ass of yours it will be blue for two months!"

The two got in fighting positions. Well, more like Bazz got in a battle-ready pose. Shirosaki was fine with just standing there and waiting for Bazzard's move. They never fought with anything more than their own fists and this time would not be different.

Just as Bazz was about to yell at Shirosaki to get in gear, the front entrance opened revealing Ossan and Soken. For the third time that day, Bazzard was astonished, eyes bulging out and mouth gaping open. He soon got back to his sense and got down to his right knee, bowing to the man he recognized… the man he had respected. He looked up, still unbelieving.

"He…Heika! Is it really you? When did you return? How did you manage to set free from the seal? How come you are not in Wandenreich?"

Ossan raised his right hand in a motion that demanded silence, which was immediately granted.

"I would prefer we take things inside Bazzard Black. Come along now, we have been expecting your arrival. Shirosaki, your match will have to be postponed for a later time."

Ossan made sure to give Shirosaki a knowing look, reassuring he had overheard the conversation. How could anyone miss it? The two were loud enough to be heard for miles away. Thankfully, he had closed the barrier as soon as Bazzard passed through. Something the youngster had completely overlooked. He went ahead with Soken at his side. The two had spent their time preparing one of the rooms for an adequate conversation.

Shirosaki shadowed the two, followed by a puzzled Bazz-B. Oh, Shirosaki was loving every second of the situation. If he was lucky enough, before the day ended, he would get the chance to let off some steam by pummeling the hot-headed Quincy to the ground.

They passed the main entrance and went toward the back, where they reached the inner garden. It was used for meal times as well as for afternoon snacks and tea time when the weather permitted. Moving further, the four reached the Main Tower and entered the foyer with an already set-up table and chairs. There were stairs leading to the upper levels, but it would appear Ossan wanted to conduct their business in the open lobby. Smart decision, as they could easily see everything around them and the air was definitely fresher than what they could expect upstairs seeing the palace had not been in use all these centuries.

Ossan had already instructed Soken with his plans on keeping some information hidden from Bazzard. One of the many details, was the fact that Shirosaki was a Hollow, as well as their long time spent together while searching for the Haldister pieces.

Once everyone took their seats, Ossan started the conversation.

"Now then, as you have correctly assumed I have returned. But not from my confinement. I am but a fragment of the sealed Emperor. For the past centuries, I've been roaming around gathering strength. Unfortunately, it is not on par with the power I had as the vast majority remains sealed away along with my physical body. Therein, lies my decision to not visit the Wandenreich. Another simple reason is because I have been recently made aware that a traitor is leading the Quincy."

Shirosaki paid close attention, pretending to not know much more than the invited Bazz-B. He also took notice of the small changes to the story. He knew Ossan would have confided the full story to Haschwalth, but no one else. Haschwalth would be able to figure out on his own by the crumble of bread fed to his friend.

Bazzard's mind had been blown up to nothingness. There were no mistakes. This individual was the Heika, his reiatsu was more than enough proof for the ill-tempered man. He understood why the reiatsu that opened the portion of the barricade had felt familiar. It had belonged to his Majesty. Oh, Haschwalth would be so furious at having missed this chance.

"Pardon my rudeness Heika. But could you tell me who the traitor is? We will serve you his head on a silver plate in no time at all."

It did not escape Ossan's intellectual mind how Bazzard had insinuated the traitor to be male.

"I am sure you have a suspicion as to who the culprit is, am I right?"

Bazzard smiled. Just as he had expected form the Emperor, nothing got pass him.

"Yes. Jugo and I are under the impression that Soren is up to no good. He came to the Wandenreich about a hundred years ago to claim his right to the position of Regent. He did get it as everyone remembers his connection with Lady Masaki. But in recent years, he has been wearing a mask which conceals his face from sight. He claims it was a necessity as he was disfigured while on a mission. Jugo is sure it's the same person. But ever since he was appointed Regent, we've faced a lot of issues. For one, man Quincy bloodlines have gone missing, another are his orders to 'remove' anyone who is not interested in joining us. There is also the fact he is obsessed with finding Lady Masaki's reincarnation. He stated that she is the…"

"The key to unseal me. Or at the very least she would guide you to my resting location."

Had Bazz-B had any doubts whatsoever, they were all rendered to dust. Just like in the old times, Heika was always on top of the game. This is how a ruler should be, knowledgeable and capable. Nothing like that pig-faced Soren.

"Yes, exactly. It did not sit well with neither Jugo nor I. However, with no other leads, everyone believes the only found member of the Royal family."

Ossan had known all this and much more. It was not surprising.

"I am aware Haschwalth is stranded. He cannot leave Wandenreich, else he would have come here. Is there any possibility I could communicate with him? At the moment there is little we can do as Soren is not the only one causing problems. There is a Shinigami who is experimenting on other Shinigami and sending them to the Living World to test them out. Apparently, he got his hands on an artifact of enormous power and is planning on becoming the Sovereign of all worlds. We must do everything we can to stop him as there is a high probability he will use Quincies for his next batch. Not only that, Soren and this individual share a common goal. To rule over all. The true motive behind Masaki's apprehension resides in the fact that, in her past life, she had the knowledge to the location of a similarly strong item. Soren has been after it and incriminated the Shinigami for the loss of the Denka. Simultaneously, he framed Quincies for crimes they did not commit against Shinigami and started the grand war between our two kinds."

Bazzard was having a hard time keeping-up with the barrage of data. He pulled out the custom-made transmitter and gave the signal to Haschwalth to connect.

"Heika, the device I have in my hands was specially made by Jugo. No one besides the two of us can trace it or hear the conversation. We also have a special code implemented to avoid being seen when we want to use it. I just contacted him, he should respond soon."

All went quiet and waited with a bit of tremor. Ossan was barely containing his enthusiasm. If he could talk to Haschwalth in private, they would have the upper hand.

"What news do you have Bazzard? Please tell me you found something relevant."

Ossan contained the smirk that wanted to grace his features. Bingo.

"Good afternoon Haschwalth. It is good to hear you are doing fine."

Silence fell upon all present, broken by the nearly inaudible words coming from the little mechanism.

"…Heika…?"

In the shadows of Seireitei a cloaked man was roaming around. Soren's plan, for once, had been a great success. Manipulating one of the infected kids from the Academy had been a piece of cake. He did lose that specimen, but gained a total of nine seated officers. The best part was that they were from different squads: four from Squad Eleven, three from the Seventh, and one from squads' Five and Eight.

A shame he had such a large number from the Eleventh, all brawn and no brains. He doubted he would ever gather anything useful from them. On the other hand, they tended to fight and once he would require more underlings he could use those cretins to contaminate more Shinigami. Alcohol was a major weakness these fools shared in common and it would not raise much suspicion if it was found that members of Squad Eleven attacked others just for being wasted by the liquors sweet nectar.

Soren was hoping one or more of the tainted souls would get an assignment to the Living World. That would be perfect as he now had nine moles who were not even aware of being his puppets. Yes, the day turned night had been rewarding. He now knew for sure that an incident did happen in Karakura. The overconfident sap forgot to consider the time the event took place. Had he been just a tidbit more attentive to details he would have noticed that the attack transpired a few days ago instead of that morning. His joy at having nine Shinigami under his control was enough to cloud his common sense. He moved along, avoiding any passersby. With his main task completed, he would return to the Wandenreich and, for a change, sleep peacefully. Finally, his plotting was moving along. Masaki and the orb would be his for the taking. He would forcefully take over all in the World of the Living and while at it, he may want to start including Soul Society as well.

^ . ^ :3 ^ . ^

Looking forward to any and all criticism.

For those who may need a refresher:

Gotei 13 = 13 Court Guard, just the Japanese version of how the organization is called.

Maggots Nest = a jail hidden in one of the properties of Squad two and under the Special Forces regimen. All those Shinigami found to be a possible threat to the peace of Soul society are brought here to rot away.

Taichou = Japanese for Captain. Later down the story we will have Fuku-taichou which stands for Lieutenant.

Onmitsukidō =Japanese version for the Special Military Forces under Squad 2

Reminders: English is still not my mother language. So, if I made any mistakes or any errors, please let me know. I am the writer and the spellcheck person all in one, not an easy job. I know this is getting old. But better safe than sorry xD

Wishing everyone an amazing day/night ahead :D